Bulgarian authorities deploy traps to capture bear near Kresna

The Executive Forest Agency (IAF) is deploying specialized traps to capture and relocate a bear that has repeatedly appeared near residential areas and businesses in the Kresna region. The operation involves experts from the IAF, the Kresna State Forestry, the Ministry of Interior, WWF, and the Pirin National Park Directorate.

Following the capture, specialists plan to sedate the animal and transport it to a suitable natural habitat far from human settlements. This measure aims to ensure the safety of local residents and prevent dangerous encounters while protecting the wildlife.

In a related incident in Blagoevgrad, authorities used camera traps after a bear was spotted wandering through the streets of the Plazh Mahala neighborhood. Officials from the South-Western State Enterprise suggested the animal, likely a two-year-old, may have been displaced by stray dogs or lost its way while seeking an exit to the forest.

Authorities urge residents and visitors in these areas to remain vigilant. In the event of a sighting, people are advised to remain calm, avoid approaching or attempting to chase the animal, and slowly retreat while contacting emergency services via 112.